SNS Star 'Meme Soban' Balche Passes Away Amid Cancer Battle

Great Popularity Spread Through SNS in 2017
Noted as a Representative Meme Star of the COVID-19 Era
Balche Passed Away at Age 12 on the 18th of Last Month

The Shiba Inu 'Balltze,' who appeared in various memes (internet viral content) worldwide before the COVID-19 pandemic, has passed away.

According to the U.S. news channel CNN on the 21st (local time), Balltze, who was battling cancer, passed away on the 18th of last month at the age of 12.

Balltze's owner explained through Balltze's official social media accounts, "Balltze peacefully passed away during a thoracentesis procedure on the 18th. After the procedure, we were preparing for other possible treatments such as chemotherapy, but it was too late."

The Shiba Inu 'Balltze,' who appeared in various memes (internet viral content) worldwide during the COVID-19 era, has passed away. [Photo source=Online community]

They continued, "Please do not be too sad and remember the joy Balltze brought to the world. Balltze brought happiness to many people during the pandemic, and now Balltze's mission is complete."

They also added, "I believe Balltze is running freely with new friends in heaven, eating delicious food. Balltze will always be in my heart. Balltze must also know how much love was received from so many people."

Photos of Balltze posted on the official SNS in 2017 gained attention after spreading through the U.S. community 'Reddit' in 2019. Subsequently, various photos went viral by word of mouth, gaining worldwide popularity. In particular, photos of Balltze with awkward expressions, sitting still, attracted attention as they were used in various memes on social media.

Meanwhile, news of Balltze's death has led to condolences from netizens around the world. Netizens responded with comments such as "I've never met him, but I am in tears," and "Balltze was a global star and the creator of memes."